Doctors have confirmed that the teenager, from Barnsley in South Yorkshire, has had her left leg amputated above the knee and suffered a fractured hand in the incident.

Leah's boyfriend, 18-year-old Joe Pugh, was treated for two broken knees and extensive hand injuries, University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust said.

Alton Towers, which reopened yesterday, said it was "deeply saddened" by news of Leah's injuries.

In a statement issued by the hospital, Leah's father, David Washington, thanked supporters, and added: "Leah has suffered a life-changing injury and now has many months of rehabilitation ahead of her."